Ondo Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his commitment towards the implementation of the deep seaport project in the state, if elected as the flag-bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and governor of the state.
Aiyedatiwa who made this pledge at Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje local government area of the State, during his campaign tour to the area, ahead of the coming governorship primary of APC, slated for this Saturday.
The governor who is jostling for the party’s ticket said the proposed multipurpose Deep Seaport in the state would galvanize the economy of the state and link it with the international community, and said there is no going back on the project.
He emphasised that having a deep seaport is essential for the economic development of the state and assured that his administration would lay a solid foundation for the establishment of Ondo seaport.
He however, maintained that his administration will pursue the implementation of the Sea Port and complement the efforts of the Federal Government in restoring power supply to the southern senatorial district of the State.
According to the Governor who said the seaport is a legacy project of the former governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, which must be sustained for the economic growth of the State.
He said: “As for the power issue, one of our sons who works with the NDDC has continued the job and it’s 98 percent completed. The BEDC authority has the challenge of meters and since many people are owing them, they cannot procure meters for individuals.
“Our government will help in procuring meters as I have asked those in charge to calculate the cost. As soon as that is done, power will be restored.”
The campaign train of the Governor moved to Ilaje, his local government, Odigbo, and Okitipupo Local Government areas where he was given a rousing welcome by the people.
Addressing the crowd, the governor said: “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the esteemed leaders and members of our party hailing from Ilaje local government. The overwhelming expression of joy from your hearts speaks volumes.
“To the vibrant Ilaje youths, I am deeply grateful for your steadfast support. Your impressive turnout today fills me with confidence, knowing that come Saturday, your presence will only multiply across the wards.
“Our collective resolve for continuity is resolute, and to achieve this, it is imperative that we all show up on Saturday equipped with both our membership and voter cards. Together, we shall excel.”
Across the three local government areas, party leaders and stakeholders reaffirmed their full support for the governor, affirming that Aiyedatiwa remains their preferred candidate of the party.
In Odigbo, Aiyedatiwa visited the traditional ruler of the land, Orunja of Odigbo, Oba Rufus Adegboyega Akinrinmade, and expressed gratitude for the monarch’s endorsement and prayers while reaffirming his commitment to exploring the natural resources in Odigbo and other communities in the southern senatorial district for the betterment of the state and pledging to prioritize the traditional institution in his governance.
While addressing party loyalists at Mega primary school, Ore, the Governor appreciated them for their sustained solidarity, with a pledge to sustain the good governance he has started.
Aiyedatiwa said “I deeply appreciate each one of you for standing by me up to this moment. It’s evident that Odigbo stands united with me, and I’m confident that you are all ready for Saturday’s election.”
Addressing the crowd of party leaders and members who gathered at Okitipupa, the Governor thanked them for their overwhelming support which will translate to victory at the primary. He expressed his gratitude for their endorsement, assuring them that he would not let them down.
Earlier, the Governor had paid a visit to the Jegun of Idepe-Okitipupa, Oba Michael Obatuga Adetoye, and Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom, Oba William Oluwasegun Akinyomi, where the governor received royal blessings.
Also, a former Deputy Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ogundeji Iroju dumped the Peoples Democratic Party for the APC and was received into APC by Governor Aiyedatiwa.